The SARA model in community policing initiatives

criminal justice SARA

Criminal Justice: SARA

The objective of this work is to describe what SARA is and explain how it is used in fighting crimes. In addition, this work will answer as to what type of policing model is SARA most effectively used and why.

is described in the work of Phillip Lyons to be the "dominant model for police problem solving." (2000) The S.A.R.A. model was developed by Eck and Spelman more than a decade ago. The implementation of the S.A.R.A. model includes four steps, which are those as follows: (1) Scanning; (2) Analysis; (3) Response; and (4) Assessment. (Lyons, 2000) The S.A.R.A. model is reported as being "widely applicable to problems faced by many neighborhoods" and to be such that has "produced excellent results for hundreds of communities across the United States." (NAM, 2000) This model is reported to establish a "collaborative systematic process to address issues of community, safety, and quality of life." (NAM, 2000) This model is used primarily in Problem-Oriented and Community Policing initiatives.

III. Response

The third step or that of response is one that is chosen "based on the seriousness of the problem and the interests at stake which is inclusive of an analysis. This step also involves the office returning to the individual who originally made the complaint to see is the individual perceives there has been any improvement in the situation.

IV. Assessment

The final step of the S.A.R.A. model is that of assessment and Lyons reports that it is this area in which policing "typically falls short." (Lyons, 2000) Assessment is inclusive of "evaluation of the effectiveness of the response." (Lyons, 2000)

V. Community Policing

The S.A.R.A. model is most effectively used in community policing initiatives as community oriented policing "Involves not only greater involvement of the community, but also more creative and innovative approaches to problem solving." (Lyons, 2000)

Summary and Conclusion

The S.A.R.A policing model was designed to provide better response to the community and involves the steps of scanning, analysis, response, and assessment. This model is used primarily in the problem oriented and community policing models and is a method that provides appropriate response to concerns and reports that are made to the police and law enforcement agencies.